Actually, most people don’t know this is really a hybrid. It starts off running on gas…then you get on the freeway and it runs on even more gas

A 1938 Alfa Romeo 8C owned by Jon and Mary Shirley of Medina, Washington, was named Best of Show at the 58th fairway of Pebble Beach Golf Links.

Proceeds from raffles, auctions, sponsorships and gate receipts helped contribute more than $1.3m (£650,000) to charity for the third consecutive year. Jon Shirley, the former president and Chief Operating Officer of Microsoft who resides in Medina, Washington, purchased his 1938 Alfa Romeo 8C 2900B Touring Berlinetta four years ago.

The 8C 2900B was Alfa Romeo’s most prestigious grand touring car of the 1930s. Only 33 examples were ever completed for road use, and most were bodied by Carrozzeria Touring. The body on this car is unique; one of six privately commissioned Berlinettas, it was used in several advertisements by Alfa.

'This car has an intriguing history,' said Shirley. 'It won the first race at Watkins Glen in 1948, and though the car’s been driven quite a bit, it’s never been wrecked. I’ve always been an Alfa fan, so winning at Pebble Beach just doesn’t get much better. I can’t wait to take it back on the road soon.' Competitors from 27 states and 12 countries brought their prized automotive possessions to California’s Monterey Peninsula for judging in 24 classes.

The Concours saluted Lancia, Lamborghini; and General Motors’ 100th anniversary, showcasing the GM Motorama road show, the Cadillac V16, GM Woodies and GM-powered sports cars. Overall, more than 200 classic vehicles, ranging from the event’s oldest competitor – an 1892 Peugeot – to a rare collection of six Ferrari California Spyders displayed their automotive wares at the annual classic car showcase.

Octane columnist Jay Leno, a regular Concours participant, brought his hefty 20+ litre 1953 Chrysler Tank Car to Pebble Beach. 'This is an M47 Patton Tank engine with twin turbos, it has 1600hp and weighs about five tons,' said Jay.

'That’s not really much when you consider the engine is meant to move a 120,000lb tank. Maybe you build cars like this when you have more money than brains, but I’ve driven it to work and it’s made it upto 145mph at the GM Proving Grounds. 'Actually, most people don’t know this is really a hybrid. It starts off running on gas…then you get on the freeway and it runs on even more gas.' The 59th Pebble Beach Concours is slated for Sunday, August 16, 2009 with Bentley and Bugatti serving as the official marques.